Tiger Woods shares emotional message paying tribute to father on Memorial Day

Tiger Woods shared an emotional message on Memorial Day in the United States, paying tribute to his father.

His father, Earl, served in the US Army Special Forces during the Vietnam War, as the golfing legend gave thanks to his dad.

Woods wrote on X: "My father was a Special Forces operator with two tours in Vietnam and 20 years of service.

"To all those like my father, we all say thank you for your sacrifices. Without them we wouldn't have the greatest country on Earth."

Woods recently arrived back in the US following a 40-day rehabilitation programme in Switzerland.

The golfing icon had been receiving treatment at a facility in Zurich since April following his arrest for driving under the influence after rolling his Land Rover near his Jupiter, Florida, residence.

His playing future remains uncertain as he prioritises his ongoing recovery.

Despite this, US Ryder Cup captain Jim Furyk has extended an invitation for the 15-time major champion to be involved with the 2027 team heading to Adare Manor, Ireland.

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Furyk explained he has held off making contact out of respect for Woods and his family during this difficult period.

"We haven't spoken yet. I think, out of kind of courtesy for him and his family, and I know maybe a road to health, I haven't reached out, but I will," Furyk said.

"I will say I enjoyed serving - I use that word serving - as a vice-captain with him a number of times. I think he brought a lot to the team room and a lot of knowledge and a lot of experience."

Woods faces charges of driving under the influence, property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test following the March incident.

Prescription opioids were discovered in his possession after the crash, and whilst a breathalyser test returned negative, he declined to provide a urine sample. He has entered a not guilty plea to the DUI charge.

In a statement released after his arrest, Woods acknowledged the gravity of his situation: "I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today.

"I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritise my wellbeing and work toward lasting recovery."

Woods has a troubled history behind the wheel. In 2009, he was involved in a crash with sleeping pills found in his system.

Eight years later, he faced DUI charges after police discovered him asleep at the wheel, which he attributed to an adverse reaction to prescribed medication.

His most severe accident occurred in 2021 near Los Angeles, when he crashed his SUV at speeds exceeding 80mph, sustaining such extensive leg and ankle injuries that surgeons reportedly considered amputation.

Prior to Furyk's appointment, Woods had actually declined the opportunity to captain the 2027 Ryder Cup side, though he had previously served in advisory roles alongside former captain Keegan Bradley.

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